Olympic Time

A real defense? We are totally winning the Gold

Its day 5 of the Olympics and I sure have watched my share of the games. They are usually fun. Skiing and shooting, going 90mph down a ice track on a sled, and flying down a mountain with no fear.

But now the real hockey starts, (I'm sorry ladies, there are two teams) Ryan Miller and the no name Americans kick off their medal run against the Swiss. And the fact NBC is live streaming it, is a joy to me, because their online stuff is downright awful. For the summer Olympics they have 5 channels with stuff, yes I know there isn't the programming for the Winter games. But seriously you can't show the live snowboard cross final? (Ctv had it and it was awesome)

Minus the CTV Olympic morning program, CTV is winning on the coverage. Live stuff, coverage of all athletes. And none of that jumping around from one thing to another. STICK TO ONE THING!

My Beautiful wife loves the crashes. Which is perfect for the Winter games. Minus the Cross Country skiing, there is potential for crashing in every sport. Even the Pairs figure skating had people crashing onto the ice all night. But nothing is better then a good bone crunching body check. And with the NHL size rink, the Hockey is gonna get physical. Don't tell me Ovechkin isn't gonna crunch someone. The American team is probably going to be the most physical. (because they don't have the firepower of the Canadians, and have to hit and hit)

So we get a week and half of some really good hockey, before the stretch run of the NHL season. Its perfect. Playoff hockey, then pseduo playoff hockey, then real playoff hockey. We're looking forward to months of great hockey ahead. Who can hate that?

Brooks Orpik is totally going to put some Swiss guy through a pane of Plexi Glass today.

Lets go USA!

Drew Stafford makes RJ Umberger Bleed his own blood.

Since I didn't watch much if any of the Columbus game. I have better things to do then watch the Sabres Blue Jackets, which are never good games. One of those bad matchups for the Sabres. I was surprised yesterday when I saw Drew Stafford got into a fight. And even more surprising partner, in RJ Umberger. But all in all a decent scrap.



The best part the shedding of the helmets. Looked like a real fight and not one of those staged Peters fights. Which can be eliminated as soon as possible please. Don't know who came out on top, but Stafford got Umberger to bleed, so thats a winner in my book. I've been critical of Stafford late, but I like to see him stand up and take someone on.

And you know who would love wingers who scrap? Brian Burke or the Ducks.

(wink wink nod nod)

Super Saints

Another good Super Bowl game, whats the deal?

Maybe two weeks is the way to go. I always hate it, because its too much hype and I just want the game. The game flew by, there weren't many stoppages, and a quality game you'd expect from the Super Bowl. I kinda wanted the Colts to win, since I usually root for the AFC. But totally happy with the Saints winning the game. The Mrs. was rooting for the Saints, so she was happy. Clapping when Porter was running back the Pick. To channel TMQ, I wrote Game Over. Haven't seen game clinching INT Peyton in a little bit. Gregg Williams game plan. What did Bill Belichick do in the mid 2000's? Do that. Repeat.

The officials let them play, there was stuff they could have called, but didn't. You know like they do in the NHL playoffs. No ticky tack pass interference. Garcon, mugged Greer to get the one they called. The bad call on the 2 point, but in regular speed, its a tough call. But thats why Instant Replay is around to make things right. It's awesome when things work they way they should.

But all you'll hear from Bills fans, its one more team that has won the Super Bowl before the Bills. Ugh. Who cares. This self loathing of late is tiresome. The Saints won. Thats great, good for New Orleans and who can't be happy for them? That team was nowhere and now they are Champs. Can't that be an inspiration for Bills fans? Sure they need a QB. And a whole lot. But they are going into a uncapped year, they can spend what they want. (be that good or bad, you decide) People are jumping ship saying they are done with the team. and we all know if they are good again, people will jump right back on. Typical people, getting out when things are bad.

But me, I'm staying on. I'm a go down with the ship type guy. I'll wait and see what the new regime does. I know theres lots of work ahead, but in today's NFL, turnarounds can be quick. And I'll wait for the media to praise the Bills again, when they win, and see the fanbase surge. I'll watch Jerry Sullivan flip flop till he throws out his back. Because I know the Buffalo News will be nothing more then a blog in a few years. They have the same access and inside information as I do. And you know it influences their opinion. When covering something, you should be as far removed as possible. And look at the big picture, not the day to day triviality. That is just my view.

I'll just wait till its my time to hang off a lightpole and celebrate.

How to wade through the trade deadine rumors as a Sabre fan

The NHL trade deadline is a month away, with a 2 week freeze for the Olympics, or as I call it secret trade time. And the rumor boards and messageboards will be blowing up with what the Sabres should do, who they are linked to and what not. But for the smart Sabre fan, you can make the time a little less stressful and worrisome, by following the typical modus operandi of one Darcy Regier.

1. Darcy will not overpay, in value or dollar wise.

The Sabres aren't cheap, to counteract the typical opinion of dumb average Sabre fan who couldn't budget out of a paper bag, in fact they are near the cap and don't have a lot of wiggle room. So any trade will have to be dollar for dollar, or a value player that fits the "system". Darcy would never go after a Kovolchuk or Souray. Players that don't pull their contract. Briere and Drury are perfect examples. Guys he got great value from, till they were overpriced now burdens to their respective teams. In the Stock market you would be called a genius, for buying low and selling high, but in Sports you're called Cheap.

2. Darcy will not Panic

Just because others are making deals, doesn't mean you have to. Right now big deals are happening. Great, good for the Leafs and Devils. The Sabres don't need to do anything right now. They could, but it's not necessary. They made a cap room deal already in shipping out Dan Paille. Right now is the time to see what you need to make a run to the Cup. During the break, do some analysis, make some calls and go from there. If you can't get what you want, just go with what you have. But do not panic and make a deal that could hurt the organization in the long run.

3. If you hear anything it will not happen

If you read something about a Sabre going somewhere for something, you can GUARANTEE it won't happen. He wants total secrecy and zero leaks. Notice no one in the Buffalo media has any idea EVER about what the Sabres will do. Darcy is very close to the vest and if any GM wants something from the Sabres, they have to keep their trap shut. So forget rumor sites, only if you want to find out who maybe out there. Otherwise they are no good for Sabre fans.

4. Any player from Buffalo or who played here will be linked to the Sabres.

With the Leafs purge, you'll see Stempniak linked to the Sabres about 40 times. He's not coming here. (goes to nhlnumbers.com) Makes 3.5 million this year and a UFA. And has 13 goals. Umm no. The only player that came back after playing here recently was Mike Grier, who was the last person, we'd thought come back. Buffalo fans like to get back what we know, because we're too lazy to do any research. Raffi Torres? Who's that? Columbus? They have a team? How many times have we heard the name Michael Peca and the Sabres at the deadline over the years.

Andrew Ladd, now we are talking. 11 goals, making 1.65 Million and a RFA. Playoff experience, was on a Cup winner.

5. Darcy will not settle.

Here's where Darcy gets criticised a lot. The old not getting anything for them routine. Darcy won't just trade a player to get something because they are leaving. I'm sure he tried his best to dump Max and Kalinin over the years, but nobody would offer something decent in return. So he kept them and got what he could out of them. Its like a car, you can't get a good trade in value so you just run it into ground.

He got a 2nd round pick for Alex Kotalik! Which was turned over to get Dominic Moore. Yikes. Well at the time it looked good. Who knew he was hurt?

Hasek and maybe Campbell are the few trades you can say he settled or got nothing for something. But really what did the Sharks get out of that Campbell trade?

6. Don't expect anything big

The trade deadline isn't the time where Darcy makes his big moves, he saves that for the offseason. Here he tinkers, acquires the Danius Zubrus' of the world (ZUBAZ!!!) He has the team he wants in place, now is the time to make tiny adjustments. He won't be putting in a new engine, he'll just be changing the oil. And of course gets roundly criticized every year for it.

Darcy has his method, you can debate whether it works or not. But just a few pointers on how to survive the trade deadline period, without getting too high or too down.

The Culture of Fear

I know with the loss last night against Ottawa, people are panicking, and worried. Just like usual around this town, when it comes to our sports teams. But I saw angry guys after the game yesterday. Angry is good. Angry gets you motivated the next time, angry makes you better. Angry makes you focused.

Worry makes you distracted. Worry makes you collapse. That is why I'm not worried about this team. They are going to make the playoffs. I could care less how they play right now. March and April are important. Ottawa is hot now, that's great, but let me see come April how they are playing and worry about them then. I have no time for panic. And its stress in my life that I can do without.

I feel this town worries too much about the sports teams. We have ZERO influence on the action of the game. The team wants to entertain the fans, sure, but winning is more important and how they do it should not matter. Just let things fall as they may and go from there. Maybe without worry, you'll fear you are not a good enough sports fan, and you aren't behind the team. What does it matter? Is Jason Pominville going to stay up at night, because Ralph from Depew isn't watching every minute and care about every win or loss?

Yes I know the Bills and Sabres have an effect on the Psyche of the town. As do most Sports teams. But I feel the feelings for the teams creep into everyday life. A can't do this or this won't happen or everybody is going to leave attitude. Can do attitude is as easy to find as a Panda in this town. And anyone that thinks they can do something or be successful is shot down and put down. It depresses me to no end. I know I'm guilty of it too.

But if I see another the Bills are moving, so who cares anyway comment. I'm going to scream. WNY has a inferiority complex the size of the Pacific Ocean. We aren't good enough, no one likes us, we're poor. blah blah blah. Doesn't mean we can't do what we want. But no one takes a chance, and without taking chances, you can't become a success, but then you can't also fail.

Buffalo: Too scared to succeed, too scared to fail.

I think we want our sports teams to be better then us. Take the chances and the heights we are too scared to go for. If they succeed then we succeed. And when they struggle, we worry. I think its time to take ourselves back from the close connection. I don't want the Bills to move because I love going to games, but in the back of my head, the Bills moving might be a good thing for the region as a whole. I don't think it will kill the region. Many places do well without NFL football.

Sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you can make a comeback. The Bills are making us feel that we are bigger time then we are. There is nothing wrong with being a small city. With the right leaders and the right ideas, we can turn the region into a very nice place to live and work. And worrying about our local sports teams is the first thing that has to go. The lose, big deal, they move? Big deal. What about jobs, what about schools, what about safety. Deal with those first, then worry about if the Sabres can win a cup.

A stanley cup isn't going to bring jobs to Buffalo.

The Lombardi Trophy, isn't going to stop the snow jokes.

All they do is provide us with some entertainment, and a little bit of joy our team won. But nothing else.

Let the fear lose its grip and success will follow I believe that.

The Sabres believe that too.

The Coach Search

Well I've stayed pretty quiet during this Coach search, didn't comment on the hiring of Buddy Nix, because really we judge him based on next year anyway, so its a waste of time. Really if we brought in some assistant GM from another organization, would it have made anyone here happy? No, of course not, because "I've never heard of him, he must not be good" mentality reigns supreme. The Bills get criticized no matter what they do, so why pile on.

Now where heading into what week 2 of coach search, but it really started after Jauron got fired, since we knew Perry Fewell wasn't going to get the job. They've interviewed, Leslie Frazier of the Vikings, who is the clubhouse leader, of course him and Fewell have been the only two interviewees. We have the constant Cowher watch, which is only being dragged out, because he's not man enough to say he doesn't want to come here. Then of course a list of assistants that could be interviewed or don't want to be.

Today Grimm yes, Schottenheimer no.

Jason Garrett is now a sleeper candiate, and its convienent for him since he can just ask Wade Phillips how the job is. (Just wear a head set is one bit of advice I'm sure) I always assumed he was being groomed for the Cowboys job, when Jerry gets around to ax Wade.

Ron Rivera has been mentioned but declined maybe. Never too clear on that one.

It seems other then Cowher and Shanahan any previous head coach, is not being seeked by the Bills. But of course how would we know, since nobody has a in, into One Bills Drive, other then the national columnists. I find it amusing no one in the Buffalo media has a in. No contacts. Paul Hamilton wrote about Brian Billick, who is not even on the Bills wish list. And they make fun a guy on East Aurora.org for his Cowher stuff. (Cowher isn't coming here) But you can't dismiss him for his report on the Coaching staff being fired, before it was reported first. (by Jay Glazer) Do I think he has a friend in the organization sure, is he a little to over the top on Cowher? You bet.

I hear Bucky Gleason and Brad Riter yesterday talking about not caring anymore of trying to find info and just waiting till the information comes out. It aggravates me, and sure that reasoning makes sense, if you want to work in a small market for the rest of your life. Theres a reason Adam Schefter works at ESPN. He pounds the phones, he works his contacts. When he says something you believe him. When Jerry Sullivan writes about Jim Harbaugh, you dismiss it, because what ever he says is pointless. The columnists at the Buffalo News are glorified bloggers. They write opinions and wait for someone else to break the news. And by the time they do write their opinions its already old news.

I guess I'm resigned to waiting till the Bills make their decision and in the age of instant gratification, its hard to do. But I have no doubt the the right man will be hired and he'll want the job. I'd rather have a guy want the job and want to be here, then one that is here for the Money. And no I don't want guys to recruit people here. I don't like that either.

Call me an optimist. But the Bills have a real GM, with a proven track record and they aren't hiring a nfl flameout college coach. Well yet. The Bills gig is a tough one. And they and the fans need a guy that is willing to work and get it done.

But unfortuntely I'll probably have to find out the information from a non Buffalo media outlet. Which is depressing about the connections in this town. Maybe its time for us bloggers to build up our connections and get exclusives.

Perry Fewell: Its a wonderful Christmas Carol

Perry Fewell (talking softly to himself) Ok ok, time to practice to get ready for those pesky Atlanta Falcons. A tough team, that is struggling on the year, hey just like us. Oh man so many new people, good thing I have a roster on me. Otherwise I wouldn't know who is out here.

(Brian Brohm goes back to pass and falls down)

Perry Fewell: Shake it off Brian, you'll get the hang of things.

(Gibran Hamdan practices his sack position)

Perry Fewell: Gibran Keep your head up.

Perry Fewell: Alex what does the gameplan look like for Atlanta?

Alex Van Pelt: Coach, its a um, good?

Perry Fewell: Did you come up with any plays or gameplan?

Alex Van Pelt: Whats the point? We're playing Brohm or Hamdan at QB. We could have Bill Walsh's playbook and still be awful.

Perry Fewell: We still are playing, every game matters. This is our profession and we have to show some professionalism. Perry Fewell doesn't quit, neither should Alex Van Pelt.

Alex Van Pelt: Ok, I'll draw up some 2 yard out passes.

Perry Fewell: That's the spirit.

(Marshawn Lynch moves around the backfield, before being stopped for a 2 yard gain)

Perry Fewell: Keep it up Marshawn, find that hole.

(Brohm throws 2 yard pass to Nelson, who drops it)

Perry Fewell: Eyes on the Ball Shawn, Eyes on the ball.

(Owens lazily runs route, knowing he'll never get thrown the ball)

Perry Fewell: Terrell gotta go full speed all the time.

(Offensive line miss all their blocks)

Perry Fewell: Know your man, O line, Know your man.

(Donte Whitner misjudges an angle and Fred Jackson scores a td)

Perry Fewell: Good job Freddie, Donte, watch your angles.

(checks watch)

Perry Fewell: Ok guys, Practice is over, go watch some film and hit the weight room.

(waits till everybody is gone)

Perry Fewell: OH GOD WHY AM I COACHING THIS TEAM!!! ITS TORTURE! NONE OF THESE GUYS ARE ANY GOOD!

Perry Fewell: Calm down Perry, only two more games, and you'll be let go and go somewhere else. Fresh start.

(whooshing noise)

Perry Fewell: Who opened the doors?

Ghost of football Christmas Past: Perry Perry Do you remember how it use to be?

Perry Fewell: Who is that? WHO'S TALKING?

Ghost: Its me Rod Dowhower your former Head Coach at Vanderbilt.

Perry Fewell: Hey coach long time no see.

Ghost: Do you remember how bad it was at Vanderbilt? When we could barely win a game?

Perry: Oh yeah, those kids weren't even division 1 Talent.

Ghost: Now look where you are a head coach in the NFL. Things aren't that bad. You're on the upswing Perry. Everything will get better. But in case you doubt it, you'll be visited by two more ghosts.

Perry: Coach, you're right, I'm just letting struggles get to me. Coach? Coach?

Ghost of Christmas Present: Perry, Its me Coach.

Perry: Coach Jauron? How are you haven't seen you since, um Uh.

Ghost: Since I was relinqueshed of my duties.

Perry: Yeah, that how are things?

Ghost: Lets take a peek of last Sunday.

(mysteriously peer into the Jauron household last sunday)

Announcer: The Bills have it and its 3rd and 20 from the 50 yard line. The snap and its a 3 yard pass, that is stopped right away.

Jauron: (claps) Thats the right call, can't risk Turnovers, thats how you lose in this league. (Talking to no one) Punt it and stop em.

Perry: You approve of that?That stuff drives me insane. Just throw it, they pick it, they pick it.

Jauron: Thats why Brett Favre struggles.

Perry: He's GOING TO THE HALL OF FAME!

Jauron: Because of the talent around him.

Perry: AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Get me out of here.

whoooosh

(Wakes up back on practice field)

Perry: Oh man that was scary.

Ghost of Christmas Future: Perry, Perry

Perry: Tony Dungy?

Ghost: Yes, I love what you do and you are what I need in a defensive coordinator when I come back to coaching.

Perry: Wow! Thanks! When is that?

Ghost: Not sure. But I can build a winner with you.

Perry: Thats awesome, it rewards me for this crapfest.

Ghost: Gotta go, gotta prep for my arguments with Rodney Harrison.

Perry: Working with Tony Dungy? A winner? Life is wonderful.

whooosh

Jairus Byrd: Coach, Coach are you okay?

Perry: Oh I'm fine, just had a great dream.

Byrd: On the field?

Perry: Yep, why don't you go inside and wish Everyone a Merry Christmas for me.

Byrd: Ok coach.

Perry: Oh and Jairus! You had a great year, just go home, we'll put you on IR. Get yourself fixed up.

Byrd: Really!

Perry: Yeah, no more from you. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

(Byrd Skips back to the locker room)

(a bell rings)

Perry: Ahhh, everytime a Bell rings a Bill goes on injured reserve.

(fade out to a snow falling over Ralph Wilson stadium)

Pat Kane comes to down

(last night downtown on Chippewa)

Pat Kane: Oh man its cold out, but doesn't stop the Kanester from hitting the Strip.

Jon Toews: Maybe we should just head back to the Hotel, its late and cold. And we got a game tomorrow.

Pat Kane: TOEWSER! I thought you were my bro? If I thought you'd weak out, I'd bring my cousins. But they can't come out anymore, because my Aunt doesn't want them in trouble. We're Kanes we rule this City.

Jon Toews: Ok, I'll hang out, whats the worse that can happen?

(Cab comes down Delaware sees Kane and crashes into tree)

Pat Kane: Stupid Cab driver, they can't drive even though its their job. And they are worse at counting money. AMIRITE?

Duncan Keith: Don't get it.

Jon Toews: I don't know if thats funny.

Pat Kane: You guys gotta lighten up. We all got paid. Know we gotta live. Because thats all our money. We made it.

Duncan Keith: We still have to play up to the contract, otherwise we don't justify the money nor the committment to the Chicago Blackhawks.

Pat Kane looks at Keith like he just said the stupiest thing on the planet.


Jon Toews: Duncan is right, we should be professionals.

Pat Kane: Back in South Buffalo, professionals would get liquored up every night. And still be great at the Job.

Duncan Keith: I'm going back so I can be ready for the Sabres. Especially that Tim Connolly. He's crafty.

Pat Kane: Tim Connolly? He couldn't stick handle his way out of a nursery rhyme.

Jon Toews: What does that mean?

Pat Kane: Think about it, it makes sense.

(Duncan Keith leaves)

Pat Kane: See you tomorrow Duncan Hines!

Jon Toews: I'm kinda hungry.

Pat Kane: Lets hit up Jim's Steakout. Its the best ever.

(enter Jim's Steakout)

Pat Kane: OH man, Chicken Finger Sub, my favorite. Nobody makes them like they do in Buffalo. Its hot, spicy and chickeny.

Jon Toews: Probably should get something healthy. Well I can splurge. Turkey Hoagie sounds good.

Pat Kane: Good choice Toewser.

Person in front, pays for food, and puts Dollar in Tip Jar.

Cashier: Everybody Thank You

Employees: THANK YOU!

Jon Toews: Do they do that everytime you tip?

Pat Kane: Yeah, its their thing, I think its dumb.

Pat orders and pays, puts 20 cents in tip jar. Nobody says anything. Kane gets a furious look on his face.

Pat Kane: HEY! I TIPPED WHERES MY THANK YOU!

Cashier: Didn't see it sorry.

Kane reaches over counter and punches Cashier.

Pat Kane: DID YOU SEE THAT! UH! I'm PAT KANE! I'm a Buffalo Legend!

Jon Toews: Pat what are you doing?

Pat Kane: This is the South Buffalo way. No disrespect.

(cashier calls cops)

Pat Kane: Hey wheres my sub?

Employee: Sir you have to leave. You can't assault us, because no one saw you tip. Especially a lousy 20 cents.

(Pat Kane punches other employee)

Pat Kane: You people don't deserve any tip. (reaches in to get 20 cents back)

(Cops roll up)

Officer Jones: Oh no, not you again Kane.

Pat Kane: This whole town is out to get me, no one likes people who succeed.

(Kane is put in cop car, while Toews call team officials)

Jon Toews: Why do I hang out with this guy?

Survivor: Offensive Line Edition

Well the offensive continues to struggle and lose players at an alarming rate. Which brings up the question, is there a secret game show going on. Because we might have a winner of Buffalo Bills Survivor very soon.

Brad Butler
Eric Wood
Seth McKinney

All are out for the rest of the season. Two opening day starters gone. Demetrius Bell has been hurt for several weeks with a knee injury, and his return is necessary. Jonathan Scott finally came back after dealing with the death of his father. So leaving the starting line of, if Bell comes back, Bell, Levrite, Hangartner, Meredith? and Scott. Not what you call a pro bowl line. Or a UFL line.

If Bell can't come back? Oh man I don't know whats going to happen, but I sure wouldn't want to be Fitzpatrick next week. I assume they will either sign someone or call up the 2 lineman from the Practice squad. Well I guess they will have to do both.

The team has two running backs, with 1 fullback. Have gone through tight ends like water. The linebackers are now filled with safeties. The team has a glut of WR's and DB's. But it all doesn't matter. The team is gonna get cleaned up come January.

But with 6 weeks to go we have two guys left. To claim the title of Survivor.

Will it be the Rookie Levitre or the old man Hangartner.

Whats the prize? A job next year.

If the Bills were a tv show...

It would have been cancelled already. Even if they were on NBC.

Its bad, its not even funny bad, but like face slap bad. So bad you want to slap yourself for watching it. Like VH1 reality show bad. Even those shows have some kind of entertainment to it. Show Bills games to Jihadists and they will renounce Islam.

How have they won 3 games? Minor miracle? Charity case? This team is just plain awful and the whole thing needs to be overhauled. No doubt about it now. The quarterbacks need to go. Lynch can leave I don't care, Fred Jackson and another guy to share the load will be perfectly adequate. Most of the Receivers can stay. I think with a decent to average QB, they could flourish.

The defense is in rough shape. They need a new scheme. Thank god they don't play a 3-4 or they would be in worse shape. I don't mind the corners, they finally have a ball hawking safety. They can get rid of Donte Whitner, they only thing he can catch is a taser. Bryan Scott is fine, but he's dime a dozen.

The Kicker and Punter are the only thing to be happy about. Seriously, Brian Moorman or Rian Lindell, maybe the MVP of the decade. Thats how sad things are at 1 Bills Drive. Its a good thing we love football or there would be 20,000 in the stands. Or we love people who can kick the football.

If this were a real Tv show, there would be new writers brought in or new cast assembled. We wouldn't wait to the end of the season to rework things. Whats the point? It's not gonna get better. The only way a tv show gets better or tries, is when people stop watching. So I think we as concerned Bills fans, put away the irrational fear of the team moving, and put our power into action. Lets just stop watching.

Give the tickets away to opposing fans, with Patriots, Dolphins and Colts left, plenty of fans left for that. Imagine 40,000 Patriot fans in the stands. Hell I'd go to the Colts game and root for them. Turn off the TV and do something else around town. See a movie, watch other football games, go play Xbox. Anything else but turn on CBS at 1pm on Sundays.

The Bills are always concerned with Marketing, and if Russ Brandon sees the product is lacking, maybe, hopefully, he'll see the whole thing needs to be blown up. In fact it needs to be blown up today. Not January, not February. But now.

Unfortuntely, the Buffalo Bills are not a TV show, but a Business. So they will go through the motions and find the most cost effective way to change things, but yet be able to sell tickets and make money in 2010.

Ugh. Looks like I'll have to find ways to avoid games on Sundays.

Bisons in National TV Ad

I saw this the other day while just watching TV. Normally I wouldn't notice the small details. But first I was like Hey! That's a Bisons hat. Then HEY! He's got Buffalo on the Jersey. Then HEY!!! That's not Coca Cola Field. But still it got me a little excited, that our local baseball team was selected for this National Ad for a major company.

Sure it wasn't filmed here, and with non local actors, but still cool to see. I thought they usually make up teams for these kind of ads.

I wonder of all teams why they chose the Bisons? It could be interesting to see why? Have the Bisons tried to push ad agencies and maybe movies to use their uniforms and name to promote their product in a way. Because its the outside the box thinking that would impress me. Or is it a local connection and they called the Bisons.

Anyway, I thought it was cool and for those that don't pay attention to ads, to maybe find out about. Since its something you wouldn't know till you saw it.

Time to dust off the blog

I know I haven't written much of late, but its been busy and I just haven't felt the urge to put anything down. But the urge is changing. No I don't feel like writing game day previews or what not. Die by the Blade and the Gooses Roost have that covered. I just want to do my own thing, try to be funny, write about my feelings on local sports, or just put down a silly picture.

I feel the peek of the Buffalo blog scene has faded. There are plenty of good ones around, but the amount and contribution has gone down, in my opinion. I also have gone down from like 3 posts a day to like 1 post a month. Yes I got married and went on a honeymoon, but production was weak even before all that. Now things have settled down and life feels like normal again. Yes I'm married, but it feels the same as it was 6 months ago.

Which is a interesting feeling. Because being a Bills fan, feels exactly the same this year as it does last year. Same kind of despair and apathy. The feeling of things aren't gonna get better, ever. As like last year, I feel I'd rather go out and rake leaves or go to the Zoo, then watch the Bills play like crap and bore the hell out of me.

Lucky I am a married man now, and have better interests then the Bills. My wife is like you can watch the game if you like. It's a nice gesture, but if she was like go rake the front lawn. I'd be like, sure. What about the back?

Its something to ponder over the next few months and years as my personal life develops. Things have changed from watching Bills games at a bar, and Sabres games in my small apartment. Well the same feeling exists, the situation just changed.

While I was in Hawaii for 3 weeks

I got married on October 3rd 2009.

My wife and I then left right away for our Honeymoon in Hawaii.

I got back on Saturday night. Sunday was a recovery day. And now I'm back at work, trying to catch up on things that I missed. Being 6 hours away kinda screws you up. You have TV and are kinda of in touch with things. But not really, since Hawaii is like being in a foreign Country.

Football is easy to follow there is only one game a week and its major news. So I knew the Bills kinda sucked while I was away, but not how much since I didn't watch any games and only saw highlights of the Jets game. I didn't really miss watching the Bills play, they aren't fun to watch and even though I was home yesterday, I didn't really care to watch that much.

From this mornings radio, the guys seemed rather down on Trent Edwards. And acceptance that the Bills will go 7-9 again. They all seemed too depressed and I turned off the radio. Being in a sunny place for 3 weeks, makes you realize how trivial football is, and whether they win or lose, it doesn't matter. There are bigger things to worry about. Like when do you go to the beach.

But I was wondering about the Sabres, since I got married on the Home opener, I really had zero clue if they were good or not. The Dan Paille trade surprised me, but I was lobbying to get rid of him anyway, but on Sunday when I saw they were 6-1-1, I was like wow. A nice start.

Tyler Myers has 5 points and a +8. I can't see him going down now. It would be a waste. He'll only get better with more playing time. The injuries to Sekera and Lydman helped him stay up here. (I'm assuming) With Tallinder a +9, could make someone a possible trade bait, the Sabres are back in that position where they can make trades, since I think they are below people's radar. And Darcy knows its make it or break it this year.

Clarke MacArthur with 4 goals is nice to see, I'm a heavy critic of is his up and down play, but if he can play evenly through the year, hes a possible 30 goal scorer and thats nothing to sneeze at.

We all know why this team is winning.

Ryan Miller

6-0-1 with a 1.69 GAA and a .940 Sv %. Looks like someone wants to start for Team USA this year. The shootout on Saturday, he was solid. But of course he has to stay healthy. They can't just ride him into the ground and expect to be great. Lalime needs time to play to be effective. He's not a cold goalie.

I'm back now, so I should be in touch with things. On the other hand, I didn't really miss anything and didn't care about who won or lost. Being in paradise on your honeymoon, makes sports rather minor. And if you are too wrapped up in a sports team, just ship yourself to Hawaii for 2 to 3 weeks and you'll be better for it.

The interesting year of Jonathan Stupar

Taken from the Bills website

With Derek Schouman ending up on the shelf, Mr Stupar will finally make his way on the team, again. He was deactivated week 1. Cut, and signed back to the practice squad, to make room for Derek Fine (the other Derek, who also constantly hurts himself) So assuming he stays healthy, which is a big assumption with Bills Tight Ends. He should be playing every week.

Why am I so interesting in Mr Stupar? Well we share a first name, we Jonathans have to stick together. And guys on the fringe always interest me, because their life must be absolute nightmares. Now he gets to relax and play a game I'm assuming he loves. Before cutting cut to let Derek Schouman back on the team next year.

Lets go back to the beginning

He was signed as a undrafted free agent out of Virginia by the Evil empire, the New England Patriots. Of course not seeing the talent that was there, released him and with most New England castoffs, the Bills picked him up. (like they did this year with Tyson Devree) But he stuck with the practice squad getting on the 53 man roster on November 28th 2008, not suiting up, but still a game check. You gotta get in the door somehow.


Then the offseason. With the release of Robert Royal, I'm sure he saw the opportunity. Then they drafted Shawn Nelson. The door shut again. He would have to prove himself, that he was worth a roster spot. That was when the Summer of Stupar happened.

Look at this stats from the preseason.

5 games 19 catches 184 yards and 1 td.

He was Gibran Hamdan's go to guy. Terrell Owens wishes he had those numbers.

But what happened?

9/5/2009 Waived

Where's the respect?

9/6/2009 Signed to the Practice Squad

Ok, thats a paycheck

9/14/2009 Signed to the 53 man roster

AWESOME show those Patriots who is boss!

9/16/2009 Waived

WHAT THE HELL!

9/17/2009 signed to the practice squad

I need the money, so I'll do it

9/22/2009 Signed to the 53 man roster

AND NEVER GOING BACK! WOOOOOO!!!!!!!

We are now entering the Stupar era, the new Pete Metzelaars, or not. Sure Shawn Nelson might get all the balls. But who will be there to block for Fred Jackson? Stupar. Who will catch those 2 yard safety valve passes? Stupar. Who will get Bills fans to go, Who is 88? Stupar.

Anything else I need to know about my favorite new player, who I will root for for no real reason, other then I want to.

(checks wikipedia page)

Stupar is the nephew of former NFL quarterback Jeff Hostetler,

Of course he is. Thanks that name doesn't bring me misery.

Moral victories are for losers.

James McCoy

Not again, another Monday night collapse. How? WHY? Did they forget how long the games were? Sure Leodis hurt the team. But the same play for two straight touchdowns? Who is covering the tight end? Ellison? Scott? Whitner? Ugh.

But no matter how many times it happens, it hurts all the same. You wanna throw something, yell at the tv. And want to give up your fan hood. But come Sunday, we'll all be back at 4pm to see them play the Bucs.

I guess you can take some positives from the game. The offense wasn't terrible. Fred Jackson is awesome, like usual. The interior line, was pretty decent. Bell will learn, hopefully quickly. I thought McKelvin was turned around by Moss and Brady all night. The defensive line got some pressure. Schobel is back.

Again they can't keep a lead against a good team. Just find ways to lose. They aren't going to be good until they can close one out against a good team. The Denver and San Diego games are good examples of that.

Moral victory? Of course not. That is one of the stupidest terms ever. There are no moral victories. You lost, and then you try to put the positive on the loss. Its one way to make you feel better. Players that cry after losses and just don't want to talk about it, probably have the right mindset. If it didn't effect you, quit. The game should upset you. You blew it. I blame the defense more then the offense. They shouldn't have let the Pats, roll down there on the first touchdown. Maybe Leodis should have fallen down at the 30 taken that kick back. There are so many what ifs. But they lost, you move on, and try to make up for it later in the year, beating the Pats at home.

Lets look at some numbers.

Tom Brady

39 for 53 378 Yards and 2 Td's and Int.

Lots of yards, but not the gaudy TD's he usually has against the Bills. Shaky at first, but was getting better in the 4th quarter.

Trent Edwards

15 for 25 212 yards and 2 td's

A pretty average Trent Edwards day. He'll give you some things, and then frustrate you the next. I think the Pats were taking away the deep stuff, so they worked the short stuff, to some success.

New England Rb's

22 carries for 64 yards. And 1 td. Thats between 3 guys. New England abandoned the run way before they were down by 11. The Pats are going to be a pass first team, and teams will have to make them run to beat them. They are still underutilize Maroney. I think hes a talent, they are just wasting away.

Bills Rb's

Otherwise known as Fred Jackson, 15 carries for 57 yards. A pretty good outing for Fred, who is dangerous everywhere.

New England recievers

Here's where it gets ugly

Moss 12 catches for 141
Welker 12 catches for93
Watson 6 catches for 77 and 2 Tds
Faulk 6 catches for 51 yards

Moss was always open. They played off to much, didn't challenge many passes, the only INT came from Schobel who made a great play.

Buffalo Recievers

Jackson 5 catches for 83 yards 1 Td
Schouman 3 catches for 41 Yards
Evans 3 catches for 25
Owens 2 catches for 46 yards
Nelson 2 catches for 13 yards 1 Td

Edwards distributed the ball, just not a lot of balls. Jackson was the best weapon all night.

Bills Defense

Ellison had 15 tackles on the night. He knows how to tackle. A lot of the Corners missed some tackles, but a solid tackling night all around.

The DMVP. Would be Schobel, a sack and pick 6. First game back since San Diego and showed why they missed him.

Pats Defense

Leigh Bodden was the leading tackler and Tully Banta Cain had two sacks. But keeping Wilfork quiet was a good job by the interior.



The game still hurts, however there are some promising signs. But there was no moral victory in Foxboro on Monday night. Just another 4th quarter comeback for Tom Brady. Ugh.

AVP! AVP! AVP!

Getting ready to gun it.

Finally, the Bills have wised up and gave Turk Schonert the boot. The offense wasn't that great when they were winning, and has been downright awful this preseason. I'm sure they saw practices and knew what was coming.

Alex Van Pelt looks to be the new coordinator and I'm sure we'll find out at 130pm when the always exciting Dick Jauron gives us the news.

I love Alex Van Pelt, I think he's interesting, hes a QB's QB. I have no doubt the Bills will open things up in the passing game with him calling the shots. He broke Marino's records at Pittsburgh, he's a pass first guy. He has nothing to lose, because we expect nothing of him and thats always dangerous.

I wonder if the Hall of Fame Owner, went to Jauron Last night, Its you or Schonert. Like he gave Wade Phillips after the Music City Forward pass, game. And smartly of Jauron, let Turk take the blame. That Yale Degree is paying off now.

If I were AVP I'd bring in Jim Kelly as QB consultant, they are good friends, and just take Trent Edwards by the collar, and tell him, you throw that ball to 83 and 81 and if it gets picked, then trust the Defense to get it back. (who have shown ball hawking skills in the preseason) Trent Edwards needs a kick in the ass, because he can get it done, I've seen it.

But I'm just a fan, and these are my ideas. AVP knows a lot more then whatever I could muster up. This is different from the Bills organization, we all expected the Bills to keep him through the season. For Dick Jauron its also a wake up call, they start slow, he's with Schonert on the Unemployment line.

AVP is now the Bills OC and I'm perfectly fine with that, it was just a matter of time, before he assumed this position. I know expect the Bills to throw it Arena Style.

Did I mention I am also very delusional.

Not going to panic yet

Throw the ball forward please

Oh man I am not going to panic after this week's preseason game. But they looked terrible. Especially on offense. Just boring, nothing exciting and just looked out of place. Trent Edwards has looked very bad 2 weeks in row. Hopefully they are lowering expectations for the Patriots. Unfortunately it maybe that the offense isn't going well and this year could be a horrendous disaster.

I know Owens isn't playing and it gives me a little glimmer of hope. But what will he matter if Trent doesn't throw it farther then 10 yards. He looks like he has zero confidence, and I'd rather have a QB with too much, then too little. The thing is we've seen Trent throw the long passes, he can do it. He has the recievers to help him. Stop making the field small, make it big, more openings that way. Like in Tennis, you don't hit the ball in the same spots. You make em run, make the DB's and LB's run all over the place. With that and the No Huddle, you'll wear out the defense.

Right now the team isn't fun to watch and they don't win. That is the most unacceptable aspect of team you root for. If they are fun to watch and are .500 you are okay with that. Because its entertaining. If they aren't fun, but win. Thats okay to, because everyone loves winning. But, losing and boring? Thats not okay. Turk, Trent lets make things a little exciting. I don't care if you throw 3 picks a game, if you mix that with 5 td passes. Look like the Saints. They're fun.

I just have this sinking feeling that things are going to bad this year. Like new QB, New GM, New Coach in 2010 kinda bad. Right now I'd rather things be really bad, so you can clean house, rather then 7-9 again, because you just don't know what to do there.

I'm not going to panic yet.

But missing 3 weeks in October for my Honeymoon, is looking like I won't be missing much. Hawaii, might not be far enough away to avoid this looming disaster.

You can take the kid out of South Buffalo, but you can't take the South Buffalo out of the kid

Well Buffalo Native Patrick Kane had a fun time in his hometown this weekend. And by fun, I mean a trip to the holding center, and we all know how fun that place is lately.

Looks like the Kane's went all "do you know who I am" on a local cab driver. But to be fair local taxi service is expensive. 12 bucks from Chippewa to Canisius? Are you kidding its like a 5 minute ride. No excuse to allegedly assault a cabbie for 20 cents. From the details I would like to break down how this all happened.

(Chippewa 430am)

James Kane: Oh boy Patty, I drank my face off tonight. We got so many free drinks. People love you.

Patty Kane: Yeah, who doesn't love the PK. We need to get a cab because I couldn't drive to the net, let alone a car. Getting a DWI would be bad for my image, so my agent says. Mug shots don't make for good publicity, whatever, PK does what PK wants.

James Kane: Yeah, you're the man Patty. WOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! Hey theres a cab, lets get that one.

(flags down cab)

Cabdriver: Hey boys, fun night out? Where you want to go?

Patrick Kane: Oh man I don't want to go home. I still need to party, got anyone you know Jimmy.

James Kane: Well there is this house on Eastwood, that is filled with some girls. And they would love to meet you.

Patrick Kane: Oh yeah, everybody wants a piece of PK. Screw TO, PK is the man in Buffalo.

Cabdriver: Guys where we going, meter is running.

James Kane: Hey this is Patrick Kane you have in your vehicle, when we decide, we'll let you know, so just drive.

(cabdriver starts van, starts driving)

Patrick Kane: Eastwood then?

James Kane: We all know how those Canisius girls are.

Patrick Kane: Yeah I hear they are fine upstanding young ladies.

(both start laughing)

Ed note: Canisius girls are the finest women in all of Buffalo.

James Kane: Oh man I wish you played for the Sabres, we could do this all year long, instead of the Summers.

Patrick Kane: If I played for the Sabres, I wouldn't play in the Playoffs.

James Kane: Oh Man BURRRRRRRRN!

Cabdriver: I think the Sabres have a chance this year.

Patrick Kane: Yeah a chance to suck.

James Kane: Dude, you are so on fire.

Cabdriver: So awesome duo, what house number on Eastwood.

James Kane: I don't know Your momma's house number.

Patrick Kane: OHHHH He got you old man.

Cabdriver: That didn't make any sense.

James Kane: Oh man I am wasted.

Patrick Kane: Me too, now I'm kinda hungry.

Cabdriver: We're here!

James Kane: Can we go to Jim's?

Cabdriver. NO NO NO, its 5am and its closed. I'm not going any farther with you two idiots. Now get out of my cab and its $13.50.

James Kane: Here's $15

Cabdriver: Oh, I don't have 20 cents change.

James Kane: WHAT? YOU TRYING TO STEAL FROM US? JUST BECAUSE YOU HAVE PATRICK KANE IN THE CAB AND YOU THINK HE HAS ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD?

Cabdriver: No I just dont....

(James Kane Punches him the face. Takes money back)

James Kane: BOOM BITCH, Thats how you roll in the SOBUFF.

(Patrick Kane continues the pummeling)

Patrick Kane: I'm ON A ROOKIE DEAL! I MAKE NOTHING! DON'T STEAL FROM ME!

(They get out of cab, cabbie radios the police)

James Kane: We showed that guy he can't mess with the Kane Boys. We keep it real. We're from the street.

Patrick Kane: Yeah we're super tough. Thats how you are raised in South Buffalo.

(Both see black person and hide behind a park car)

James Kane: That was close, we almost got jacked.

Patrick Kane: Canisius is such a rough area, I don't know how people learn here.

(cops arrive)

Cop: Whats going on?

Cabdriver: These two assaulted me and stole money from me.

Cop: Is this true guys?

Patrick Kane: We stole money? He tried to play off the old "I don't have 20 cents bit" THATS MY MONEY I WORK FOR MY MONEY!

Cop: Don't you have a lot of money?

Patrick Kane: I'M ON A ROOKIE DEAL!!! I MAKE SQUAT!

Cop: Ok we're going downtown. Turn around you're both under arrest.

James Kane: This is harassement. This is bias, you're only arresting us because we're famous.

Cop: This is why I got out of the South Buffalo beat to begin with.

(and scene)

Thats how I think this incident went down. I could be wrong, probably totally wrong, but whatever. These two idiots will get some low level misdemeanor conviction at city court, just like everyone else and pay some fine and get some community service. This won't do anything to Pat Kane's image.

Who else is excited about football?

(from buffalobills.com)

From the look of the Buffalo Blogosphere Bills football isn't highly anticipated. If I read or see one more post on the Sabres not doing anything, I'm gonna scream. Its August relax. The season doesn't start till Christmas anyway. (Look at the Penguins) I on the other hand am rather excited about the Football Season. I don't know what to expect, but the season shouldn't be a boring one. The Bills play good teams. They open up in prime time. They play the first game of the season. I just can't get enough football. And unfortuntely I have 3 sources to read anything daily on them. The Buffalo News, Inside the Bills by Chris Brown and Buffalo Rumblings. All decent sources. But there are no funny pieces, some insight, and I don't care what training camp player has what number.

I've heard nothing about Kawika rocking the Stache! Nobody cares? Nobody is paying attention? Rather we talk about some signing for Portland by the Sabres. Ugh. Buffalo sports blogging is completely onesided and its onesided to the irrelevant team in the area. The Sabres are fun, but completely plastic and boring. The team is sanitized for public consumption. How can you argue though? They sell tickets, they sell mercandise, and always have people talking, good or bad.

The Bills have some actual characters on the team. Personalities. The Sabres? Maybe Ryan Miller and Paul Gaustad. But everyone else, interchangable parts. Someone speak up. Speak your mind. Maybe theres a corporate culture there, that eliminates that aspect. Sports shouldn't be just business. Its entertainment. Entertain me. Boring and winning is ok, but boring and losing is downright unacceptable. And this town won't accept it for long, before a mass exodus will happen.

The Bills may have a marketing guy in charge, but is that a bad thing. If you had a choice of player, one that has a personality over another boring guy, with the same talent. Who would you choose? I'd choose the guy with the personality. Give me some entertainment with my team. You know why the 90's Bills were fun? Not just because they won, but because they were all big personalities. Guys that want to be the show. Terrell Owens wants to be the show. And the Bills need that guy. Too many of them were, team first guys. Well thats great, but when your too worried about the team, you don't excell for yourself.

The Sabres have way to many of these guys. They need a me first player. A guy that just wants to take over, teammates be damned. I don't know if this area wants the me first guy though? There are a lot of people in this area, that don't care what the athletes think, they should just shut up and do their job. (Just like them) Of course those that shut up and just do their job, don't get anywhere. The ones that speak up and create a stir are the people who are noticible and advance.

I'm sorry for going on a rant. But I'm just tired of the Buffalo blog scene, if I had more time, maybe I'd contribute more. Getting married and working hard takes time. Plus the fact i'll be busy most of October, the Sabres won't mean much to me. I'd rather find out who won on Sunday then if the Sabres won a game on Tuesday in October.

It's August, we're 6 days away from a Bills game. And I couldn't be happier.

Can we stop living in the past please?

I've had about enough with the "bringing back old Sabres" talk. People are like they were good so and so years ago. So we should bring them back. It drives me up a wall. Hey lets bring back Taylor Pyatt, Erik Rasmussen. Why not Phillipe Boucher?

Why can't anyone use any rational thought. Especially about Martin Biron. Talk about a guy we make out to be such a great goaltender. THE GUY SIGNED AS THE 3rd GOALIE ON THE ISLANDERS! Anyone could have had him. The Flyers went with RAY EMERY! If Marty was that good, he would still be the starting goalie on the Sabres. But Ryan Miller was better. So Darcy got rid of him. We need a good backup is the argument. Marty is as good as the defense is in front of him. Bad defense, Bad Biron. They have a backup. A cheaper one. One that is practically the same.

We can't compare stats, because the Sabres and Flyers are two different teams. But in Marty's last year here, the Presidents Trophy winning team these were Marty's stats.

.899 sv % and a 3.04 GAA.

Yes he went 12-4, but guess what they don't have the goal scoring they did then and the defense is worse. There's a reason Darcy didn't sign him. Maybe because he'd get lit up like a Christmas Tree.

I don't care if Marty is a good guy or not, or maybe he had a good locker room influence, one of those overrated intangibles, comfort isn't what the Sabres need, its unpredictability. If Marty was that good, they would have made the playoffs before the Lockout.

The same applies to Jay McKee. Oh my god have we made this man a hall of famer. The man who couldn't stay healthy. Average defensemen who sure blocked shots, but that also led to him missing games. They signed the better version of Mckee in Montador, and yet people clamored for to come back.

THE BLUES CUT HIM!

He went from a 4 million a year player to a 800k player. Players don't take a paycut unless they have to. If the fans were the General Manager, the Sabres would be drafting John Tavares.

No one in this town can move on. We can't look into the future, or see that other players might be better then we ones we've watched. The "oh I've never heard of him, so he can't be good" type mentality. There is lack of rationality when it comes to Buffalo Sports Fans, more then average. And looking to the past at all times, holds everyone back. We gotta look forward. Looking to the past is comfortable. Its easy, its the known. What I want is the unknown. I want something that could be better. Settling isn't something that we should do or our sports teams.

Signing Marty Biron would be settling. Signing Jay McKee would be playing is safe.

This town plays it safe too often, and its ingrained in our mentality. And I'm tired of it. Stop talking about players that left. They are gone, its over move on. We are the guy who pines for the ex girlfriend and can never see that someone else might be better.

So to everyone Move on already.